"It is disappointing that Helvetic have pulled out of Cardiff after just two years, especially after the Welsh Labour Government spent £500,000 helping them promote the route.

"This announcement just goes to show the size of the task that the Welsh Labour Government faces in turning the airport's fortunes around.

"However, I was pleased to see Vueling announce that they are expanding their involvement with Cardiff airport and that they are offering new flights. This new investment says to me that the airport has potential if we can identify the right routes and the right carriers."